1974 Beaulieu Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

The ’74 vintage from Napa was remarkable and at 44 years old, this Cab was one of the best. Soft tannins, still ruby red, and red cherry fruits with vanilla oak notes from the American oak they used then, all offered a flavor California no longer provides. Excessive alcohol and big jammy fruits do not enhance quality meals.

The wine was from my son’s birth year, kept in my cellar for 40 years, and served with venison loin, rice and asparagus. The wine was as smooth as silk.

This Cab continued to open after decanting for nearly an hour. I wish I had more of them. We use it to toast to my son’s Godfather who had just passed away. In Vino Veritas.

John Mahoney

Cliff,
Thanks for your comments on my wine reviews.
Send me your e-mail to j.mahoney@juno.com so I can get you
to some Dionysian activities. The 2019 Gathering (Annual get-together)
is in Croatia , but we’ll do a local event too. John